Image reproduced from 中視新聞

Since the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine war in February 2022, many Ukrainian soldiers have suffered inhumane treatment in Russian POW camps. Recently, a released Ukrainian soldier known as ‘Andriy’ revealed the brutal treatment he endured, including torture and being forcibly branded with the humiliating phrase 'Glory to Russia' on his body, which has left him with a profound psychological burden.

After enduring such a traumatic experience, a Ukrainian medical team has stepped in to assist Andriy in removing this indelible mark, aiming to restore both his physical and mental dignity.

Reports indicate that Andriy is around 40 years old and during his time in captivity, he was subjected to branding by Russian doctors, leaving him with scars on his side. Upon returning to Ukraine, he entered a nationwide medical charity project called ‘Неопалимі’ (Neopalymi, meaning 'Immortal') to receive specialized treatment.

Andriy's story has shocked many online and garnered widespread attention, with public outrage over such inhumane practices. Dermatologists have pointed out that due to the size and depth of Andriy’s scars, the treatment process must be phased to avoid further skin damage.

Currently, the medical team is employing laser technology to soften the scar tissue in preparation for more aggressive treatment later on. Experts caution that laser treatment may cause Andriy pain and require multiple sessions, but it is expected that within months, his scars will fade to faint traces.

Furthermore, Andriy has expressed that seeing the branding triggers painful memories of his captivity. Therefore, the medical team is collaborating with psychological specialists to provide counseling to help him overcome this trauma.

Maksym Turkevich, the head of the ‘Immortal’ project, emphasized that the purpose of this treatment plan goes beyond healing the physical scars; it aims to help these soldiers regain their dignity and hope for a better life.

In May of this year, Andriy was repatriated to Ukraine through a POW exchange agreement between Ukraine and Russia, and upon his return, he was diagnosed with injuries including groin damage, a ruptured bladder, a hernia, and a tear in the rectus abdominis muscle. He is still undergoing treatment.